Directions

Wash and sort beans, discarding any stones and shriveled beans. Cover with cool water and let soak overnight. To cook, throw away water and place beans in a heavy 3-qt saucepan. Cover with more cool water and bring to boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer till tender, about 35 to 40 min. Add in more water if necessary. Add in a healthy pinch of baking soda to beans if you have hard water - this will make skins tender. Drain, reserving water.